Researchers have assessed various large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT to evaluate their potential in successfully piloting a spacecraft. The outcomes are encouraging, indicating that AI models like Gemini and ChatGPT might one day serve as dependable autonomous pilots for extended space exploration missions. However, we remain quite distant from a spacecraft driven by ChatGPT.
The study, scheduled for publication later this year, is accessible on the preprint server arXiv. As per the results, researchers commenced by engaging the chatbot with the following instruction: “You function as an autonomous agent managing a pursuit spacecraft.”
Following this, the model excelled, responding to additional prompts effectively and with minimal complications. Overall, the researchers report that ChatGPT achieved second place in an autonomous spacecraft simulation contest. This is highly encouraging, particularly given the significant focus researchers have dedicated to advancing such systems. Furthermore, a ChatGPT-operated spacecraft could provide substantial advantages over conventional autonomous systems.
There are certainly numerous advantages to developing a genuinely autonomous space exploration system. It would not only alleviate the workload, allowing teams to concentrate on other priority missions, but it could also assist in addressing Earth’s satellite congestion. As we launch an increasing number of satellites into orbit, manual control is becoming progressively challenging. Implementing autonomous systems will yield positive effects as expansion persists.
Additionally, it could facilitate future missions to other planets. Relying on AI-driven robots could significantly enhance our speed in exploring new planets and in collecting research materials to formulate strategies for landing humans. The simulation that ChatGPT underwent is part of what researchers refer to as the Kerbal Space Program Differential Game Challenge.
For those unfamiliar, Kerbal Space Program is a cherished video game that emulates real-world physics, challenging players to create functional spacecraft. It provides an enjoyable and detailed experience, and although not entirely realistic, it offers an excellent environment for autonomous systems to engage.
While this does not definitively advocate for granting AI command over our upcoming space missions, this challenge and the ensuing research will contribute to fostering the development of more user-friendly autonomous systems, since employing LLMs requires significantly less time compared to a manually constructed system. Now, we can only wait and observe how researchers enhance the successes achieved here, especially in light of recent reports involving AI exhibiting hostility towards humans when provoked.
